Acute Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infections): Part II

Are you ready for part II of our discussion on middle ear infections?  (Click here to read Part I) We’re going to stray a little bit from the treatment aspect of our discussion for a second; I’m DYING to ask you this question (and to give you the answer)…

 

Why do middle ear infections affect children more often than adults? 

baby-with-aom 

Well, there are a couple of major reasons why. 

 

The first has to do with the positioning of the eustachian tube.  Yeah, that’s right, the eustachian tube – it’s a tube that connects the back of the throat to the middle ear.

 

In children, the eustachian tubes are more horizontal and shorter than those found in adults.  This makes it easier for bacteria to find their way into the middle ear and to hangout there because of improper fluid drainage. 

 

Also, a child’s tubes are less stiff and narrower, which causes more blockage and creates a fabulous place for bacteria to take real estate in!

 

And that’s, that!

 

Hit me up with an e-mail if you have any questions (cate@getpharmacyadvice.com) or definitely leave a comment. 

 

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